Seat support device for a riding animal or a pack animal

ABSTRACT

A seat support device for a riding animal or a pack animal, a saddle tree, and a saddle with such a saddle tree are disclosed. The seat support device comprises a right multi-linked lug arrangement with a first link section and at least a second link section and a left multi-linked lug arrangement with a first link section and at least a second link section. A pivoting device with a pivot axis is each formed case between two adjacent link sections, so that two adjacent link sections are pivotable towards one other around a pivot axis substantially within a pivot plane which penetrates the pivot axis substantially perpendicular.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a seat support device for a ridinganimal or a pack animal, a saddle tree and a saddle with saddle tree.

BACKGROUND

Different types of saddles such as all-purpose saddles, dressage saddlesand jumping saddles are used in equestrian sports, particularly in theEnglish equestrian sports. An all-purpose saddle is a compromise of ajumping saddle and a dressage saddle, whose twist, i.e. lowest point, issubstantially in the middle of the seat. The twist of the dressagesaddle is also substantially in the middle of the seat, whereas thetwist of the jumping saddle is a bit behind the middle of the seat.

The construction of saddles for riding animals has been virtuallyunchanged in the course of time. The most original form is the Bocksaddle which was used as a transport saddle, load saddle or pack saddle.It was made of two shelves which were butted against the animal body onthe left side and right side and connected together at the front and theback by means of girths. The Bock saddle has been padded with cushionsand blankets in order to use it as a riding saddle. Since the 18thcentury, a saddle tree is used which serves as a support or frame for asaddle for sitting on the back of a riding animal or pack animal, suchas horses, ponies or donkeys.

EP 2 159 187 A1 describes an exemplary saddle tree having a supportingside for applying to a back of a riding animal or pack animal, a topside facing away from the supporting side, a gullet for forming thegullet width of the saddle and a gullet plate for stabilizing the gulletrunning transverse to the length of the saddle tree along the gulletwherein the gullet plate is arranged at the top side. The material ofthe gullet plate has to meet high strength requirements as it is subjectto high mechanical loads.

In order to achieve a great accuracy of fit of a saddle tree or asaddle, the saddle tree is being adapted as optimally as possible to theback of the riding animal or pack animal which shall be saddled,particularly to the form of its withers, the musculature of the animal,the animal variety, congenital abnormality, etc., taking into accountthe physical constitution of the rider, particularly the size andweight. Different styles of riding or purposes also require individualdesigned saddle trees in order to prevent or minimize harm to health ofthe rider and of the riding animal or pack animal.

In practice, saddle trees are offered in a large number of differentsizes and different gullet widths. The gullet width of the saddle treecan be modified by adapting or replacing the gullet plate. Theadaptation can be performed by bending up, respectively widening, orcompressing, respectively narrowing, the gullet plate. The specialist orsaddler usually uses an adjusting device to adjust the gullet plate. Itis particularly costly in terms of labor and time-consuming to adapt orreplace the gullet plate. Afterwards, the cushions of the saddle have tobe adapted in many cases. The rigid and inflexible fork construction ofthe saddle head and of the gullet plate provide a secure hold for therider only if there is an optimal fit of the saddle tree or saddle onthe back of an animal.

In case that the saddle tree is made from a solid material, for examplewood, the saddle tree has a saddle head made of a stable, rigid, andsolid material and the adaption of the saddle tree to the horse back isachieved by adding or removal of saddle tree material, which is timeconsuming and costly.

A saddle tree or a saddle which does not fit or does wrongly sit mayhinder the motion of the animal or injure the animal while riding.Furthermore, the saddle is not sufficiently fixed on the animal backwhereby the rider is not able to establish an optimal connection to theanimal and the saddle may slip.

In the equestrian field a rider usually purchases a custom-made saddlefor each riding animal. This accounts for the fact that riding animalshave a different anatomical physique particularly in the area of thesaddle support.

Riding animals such as horses often have an asymmetry which is commonlyknown as the good and the bad hand. The asymmetry of the riding animalcan be, for example, birth-related, inherited or acquired. Thebirth-related asymmetry is generally the result of a lack of physicalactivity directly after the birth of the riding animal. The acquiredasymmetry is often caused by insufficient exercise of the riding animalduring the rearing phase or by injuries and afterwards a prolongedrelieving posture. An asymmetry caused by riding may further occur dueto a missing or incorrect gymnastic development of the riding animal orpack animal. The term gymnastic development refers to the work with ariding animal on the basis of scientific knowledge of the anatomy,physiology and psychology of the animal.

Different measuring systems are used to measure the back of the ridinganimal or pack animal particularly the area of the saddle support. Thesaddlers particularly determine the form of the trapezius to the leftand right of the withers of the riding animal or pack animal, the shapeof the back muscles particularly on the left and right of the spinalprocess, and the backrest form of the riding animal and pack animal i.e.whether the back is straight or curved. Furthermore, both the shouldersections and gullet width of the riding animal or pack animal aremeasured. This procedure has the disadvantage that the individualmanufactured saddle tree and saddle with such a saddle tree is suitableonly for a specific riding animal or pack animal and in the event of achange of the anatomic shape of the back the costly made tailored saddledoes not fit any more.

There is a need for the rider at the moment that a check and examinationhas to be carried out when a new saddle for a particular riding animalor pack animal is purchased and also afterwards in regular intervals todetermine whether the saddle fits as optimally as possible on the backof the riding animal or pack animal. In practice, an adaptation of thesaddle tree or the saddle must be carried out in case of a change ofweight, musculature or age of the riding animal or pack animal.

The object of the present disclosure is therefore to provide a seatsupport device suitable for a riding animal or a pack animal, a saddletree and a saddle with such a saddle tree for a riding animal or a packanimal which enables a variety of industrial applications, which can beused on differently shaped back areas and withers without restricting orimpeding the freedom of movement of the riding animal or pack animal,which enables a secure fixation of the saddle on the back of the ridinganimal or pack animal without producing partial pressure points, whichprovides an improved distribution of the forces acting on the ridinganimal or pack animal and with which the disadvantages of the state ofthe art can be overcome.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a seat support device for a ridinganimal or pack animal according to independent claim 1, a saddle treecomprising the seat support device, and a saddle comprising the saddletree with the seat support device. Preferred embodiments are disclosedin the dependent claims.

The seat support device for a riding animal or pack animal comprises aright multi-linked lug arrangement with a first link section and atleast a second link section and a left multi-linked lug arrangement witha first link section and at least a second link section. A pivotingdevice with a pivot axis is formed each between two adjacent linksections. Two adjacent link sections are pivotable towards one otheraround the pivot axis substantially within a pivot plane whichpenetrates the pivot axis substantially perpendicular.

The term “substantially perpendicular” preferably comprises a taperangle range of 20°. The link sections of the multi-linked lugarrangements each have a defined length. The left multi-linked lugarrangement is located on the left side of the withers and the rightmulti-linked lug arrangement is located on the right side of the withersof the riding animal or pack animal, when viewed from the tail to thehead of the riding animal or pack animal. The term “longitudinaldirection” or “lengthwise” means substantially parallel to the spinalcolumn of a riding animal or pack animal, i.e. in the direction of thehead to the tail, and the term “transverse direction” or “transversely”means substantially transverse to the spinal column or body length of ariding animal or pack animal. Riding animals or pack animals include allanimals that are ridden by people or that may transport goods. Theseinclude in particular horses, ponies or donkeys.

The disclosed seat support device may be mounted to a seat on a ridinganimal or pack animal. The seat support device can be used for ridinganimals and pack animals with different anatomical back shape. Thedisclosed seat support device ensures that the spinal column and thewithers as well as the trapezius muscle of the respective riding animalor pack animal are kept free from load. The seat support device isusable independently of the anatomical shape of the back of the ridinganimal or pack animal. The seat support device does not comprise asaddle head and/or a gullet plate so that a subsequently adaption oradjustment of the saddle head and/or gullet plate is no longernecessary. In particular in case of a change of the weight, themusculature, or the age of the riding animal or pack animal, it is nolonger necessary to widen or to narrow the gullet plate, which has beentime-consuming and labor-intensive. A saddle head or a gullet plate isnot required due to the novel construction. The flexible structure andconfiguration of the device also enables a usage when the riding animalor pack animal is sensitive, or it is already injured or it is exteriorunusual.

The disclosed seat support device can be used for different embodimentsof the seat or the load support surface for the rider and for aplurality of saddles such as jumping saddles, dressage saddles,all-purpose saddles, Western saddles, dress saddles, gaited horsessaddles, trail saddles, endurance saddles, side saddles, Englishsaddles, Iberian saddles, Spanish saddles, load saddles or pack saddles.

The disclosed seat support device, saddle tree and saddle with such asaddle tree can be used without measuring the back of the riding animalor pack animal, and without individual adaptation. The disclosed seatsupport device can be used for various riding animals or pack animalswhich have different back structures, withers, asymmetries ormusculatures.

Another advantage of the disclosed seat support device is that itsconstruction does not strain the withers of the riding animal or packanimal and the withers is freely movable. The withers is a verysensitive and injury-prone part of the body of the riding animal or packanimal. The embodiments of the prior art comprising a saddle head and/ora gullet plate have particularly the disadvantage that the withersregarded as very important for the balance and the secure support of thesaddle can be injured and that the trapezius muscle which is incorrectlystressed by an incorrect fitted saddle can atrophy when it is exposed tohigh and extended pressure loads. Furthermore, a saddle head and/orgullet plate hinder a feedback so that the rider does not obtain aresponse about the stress condition or information about any anxiety orworry of the riding animal. Such a feedback enables, however, theperception of injuries or damages of the riding animal. The removal ofthe saddle head and/or gullet plate, which are not required for thebalance or the sitting comfort of the rider, allows that the riderobtains a feedback from the riding animal and a direct influence andforce transmission from the rider to the back musculature of the animalis possible particularly through the seat. The communication between therider and the riding animal or pack animal is particularly improved. Therider is able to pass on commands to the riding animal or pack animal byshifting of weight or transference of force by legs. Furthermore, therider can earlier perceive stress conditions of the riding animal orpack animal. Moreover, the hindquarters activity can be improved bothduring the training of young riding animals or pack animals and duringthe riding of well-trained horses.

The disclosed saddle tree can be applied to the back of a riding animalor pack animal and it is attachable to the riding animal or pack animal.A saddle tree for riding animals and pack animals is provided whichcomprises a seat having a front area facing towards the head of theriding animal or pack animal, a back area, and two side areas, and adisclosed device attachable to the saddle tree. The right multi-linkedlug arrangement and the left multi-linked lug arrangement are attachableto the saddle tree. A pivoting device with a pivot axis is formedbetween two adjacent link sections, wherein the two adjacent linksections are pivotable towards one other around the pivot axissubstantially within a pivot plane which penetrates the pivot axissubstantially perpendicular. The term “substantially perpendicular”preferably comprises a taper angle range of 20°.

The disclosed saddle for applying to a back of a riding animal or packanimal comprises the disclosed seat support device and at least onecushion element attached to the bottom side of the seat. In a preferredembodiment, the saddle further comprises a saddle tree.

It is an advantage that the disclosed saddle does not affect themobility of the scapulae and the related musculature and tendon bases ofthe riding animals or pack animals. The movable multi-linked lugarrangements of the seat support device particularly adapt to the bodyshapes of the riding animals both while standing and riding. Thefixation of the device, the saddle tree or the saddle behind thescapulae of the respective riding animal or pack animal is preferablycarried out flexible by means of a belt fasting device. The fixation isalso ensured by the adjustment of the individual pivoting elementsbetween the individual link sections of the multi-linked lugarrangements which beside the degree of freedom retains a rigidadjustment of the adjacent link sections substantially within theirrespective pivot plane. The device, the saddle tree and the saddle canbe used for different breed of horses and for different formed backshapes of riding animals and pack animals.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivoting device is formed such that itgenerates only a possible small motion-dependent and/or angulardependent counter-torque. In a further preferred embodiment, thepivoting device has a counter-torque which is defined and actsproportional to the relative motion of the link sections which areadjacent to the pivoting device. Such a counter-torque is produced, forexample, by internal friction of the pivoting element or by applicationof a friction element which damp the motion of the link elements.

In a further preferred embodiment, the pivoting device has acounter-torque which is defined and acts proportional to the anglebetween the link sections which are adjacent to the pivoting device.Such a counter-torque is producible, for example, by a spring elementwhich exerts a torque to the link elements in order to bring it back ina starting position. Such a spring element can comprise, for example,the material of the pivoting device itself or an additionally attachablecomponent with a defined spring constant.

In a preferred embodiment, the right multi-linked lug arrangementcomprises a first link section and a second link section. The leftmulti-linked lug arrangement also comprises a first link section and asecond link section, wherein a pivoting device with a pivot axis isformed each between two adjacent link sections. The two adjacent linksections are pivotable towards one other around the pivot axissubstantially within a pivot plane which penetrates the pivot axissubstantially perpendicular. This configuration of the pivoting devicesenables that the multi-linked lug arrangements can be pivotedrespectively in one direction. Each pivoting device provides a degree offreedom which is defined by the position of the pivot plane in space.The term “substantially perpendicular” preferably comprises a taperangle range of 20°.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the right multi-linked lugarrangement comprises a third link section and the left multi-linked lugarrangement comprises as third link section, wherein another pivotingdevice with a pivot axis is formed between each second and thirdadjacent link section, the two adjacent link sections being pivotabletowards one other around the pivot axis substantially within a pivotplane which penetrates the pivot axis substantially perpendicular. Theterm “substantially perpendicular” preferably comprises a taper anglerange of 20°. This configuration of the pivoting devices enables apivoting of the multi-linked lug arrangements both substantially inlongitudinal direction and substantially in transverse direction.Preferably, the pivoting devices absorb the loads of the movable partsand the three-dimensional force components and torsion components of themovements. Each pivoting device provides a degree of freedom.

In a further preferred embodiment, the right multi-linked lugarrangement has a further link section and the left multi-linked lugarrangement has a further link section, wherein another pivoting devicewith a pivot axis is formed each between two adjacent link sections, thetwo adjacent link sections being pivotable towards one other around thepivot axis substantially within a pivot plane which penetrates the pivotaxis substantially perpendicular. The term “substantially perpendicular”preferably comprises a taper angle range of 20°. The articulatedconfiguration of the multi-linked lug arrangements enables an optimaladaption or alignment of the device to the body shape or back structureof the riding animal or pack animal. A rider is able to establish aclose contact to the animal as there is an optimal adaption of thedevice to the back of the riding animal or pack animal. The linksections of the multi-linked lug arrangements which are formed behindthe scapulae of the riding animal or pack animal and which have the sameor different length enable unhindered movements of the musculature ofthe riding animal or pack animal whereby the efficiency can be increasedand health impairments can be prevented.

Advantageously the second link section and the third link section of theleft multi-linked lug arrangement include an angle range between 60° and130°, particularly between 70° and 120°, preferably between 80° and110°, and the second link section and the third link section of theright multi-linked lug arrangement include an angle range between 60°and 130°, particularly between 70° and 120°, preferably between 80° and110°. A pivoting of the link sections is provided by the angledconstruction both substantially in longitudinal direction andsubstantially in transverse direction. The angled lug arrangementsenclose the body of the riding animal or pack animal without casing orperforming partial pressure points or small load areas.

It is preferred that the last link section of the right multi-linked lugarrangement and the last link section of the left multi-linked lugarrangement comprise free ends. The free ends are movable and pivotablein a large angle range, for example of 350°.

In a preferred embodiment, the first link section of the rightmulti-linked lug arrangement and the first link section of the leftmulti-linked lug arrangement extend in each case at least partly to theback area of the seat. In that case, the respective first link sectionsof the lug arrangements form longitudinal struts. The longitudinalstruts are preferably made of a moldable material and are formedsubstantially in the side areas of the seat.

Advantageously, the seat support device and/or the saddle tree comprisefiber-reinforced plastics, particularly carbon-fiber-reinforcedplastics. Fiber-reinforced plastic means a material which comprisesreinforcing fibers and a polymer matrix. The matrix encloses the fiberswhich are bonded to the matrix by adhesive power or cohesive power.Carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic means a fiber-plastic composite materialin which the carbon fibers, particularly in several layers, are embeddedin the polymer matrix as reinforcement. The use of fiber material hasthe consequence that the fiber-plastic-composites have a directionalelasticity behavior. Fiber-plastic-composites particularly have highspecific stiffness and strength.

In a preferred embodiment, at least one connection element or connectionstrut is formed between the first link section of the left multi-linkedlug arrangement and the first link section of the right multi-linked lugarrangement. The connection strut particularly has a curve or a bendwhich substantially has the shape of the horseback. An improved fixationof the respective link sections of the lug arrangements in transversedirection can be provided by the at least one connection strut with theconsequence that the seat support device and/or the saddle tree canwithstand higher forces and loads which particularly occur during fastmovements of the riding animal or pack animal or jumping activities. Ina further preferred embodiment, two connection elements are formedbetween the first link section of the left multi-linked lug arrangementand the first link section of the right multi-linked lug arrangement.

Advantageously, each pivoting device comprises a hinge or a joint. Eachpivoting device, however, can also comprise an integral hinge, i.e. itcan be formed by means of tapering of material or by individual formedconnection struts. An integral hinge is characterized by the fact thattwo elements which shall be connected together are formed in one-piece.The integral hinges substantially comprise a material tapered orthin-walled connection or a connection having individual material strutswhich enables a rotation of the connected parts substantially within adefined pivot plane by means of their ductility.

The hinge must be able to absorb the load of the movable parts inparticular the link sections of the lug arrangements and the forces ofmovement wherein it serves as a bearing having a degree of freedomsubstantially within a defined pivot plane. The expert recognizes thatthe at least one pivoting device is formed from a flexible connectionsuch as elastic or non-elastic bands, laced wire ropes particularlysteel ropes or other connections which are free movable within the pivotplane and which are stable and formed transverse to the pivot plane.Therefore, the pivoting device may be formed from, for example, apartly-flexible tissue element particularly fabric-reinforced elasticbands, non-metallic straps, leather tapes, synthetic bands or band-likeor cord-like connections made from any other material.

In a preferred embodiment, one link section preferably the second linksection of the right multi-linked lug arrangement comprises a firststirrup belt holder and one link section preferably the second linksection of the left multi-linked lug arrangement comprises a secondstirrup belt holder. The relevant individual link sections of the lugarrangements form the stirrup belt holders and can be manufactured inone piece. Thus, costs and material can be saved and a compact andsecure construction can be provided.

In a further preferred embodiment, a first stirrup belt holder isattached to the right multi-linked lug arrangement and a second stirrupbelt holder is attached to the left multi-linked lug arrangement byfastening means. In that case the possibility is given that differentformed stirrup belt holders can be attached and they are replaceable.The attachment of the stirrup belt holders can be achieved by fasteningmeans such as screws, rivets and/or adhesives.

A recess is preferably formed in the front area of the seat in order toimprove the movability of the back musculature and to provide aprotection to the back of the riding animal or pack animal. The recessor cavity is formed in the front area of the seat.

The right multi-linked lug arrangement and left multi-linked lugarrangement may each comprise a first belt fastening devicesubstantially in the area of the free ends, a second belt fasteningdevice substantially in the front area of the seat, and a third beltfastening device substantially in the back area of the seat. The beltfastening device may comprise, for example, a mounting bracket which ispivotable about a pin which is fixed in the saddle tree material.

One end of a belt is preferable attachable to the first belt fasteningdevice, the belt is guidable through an opening of a first strap and itis attachable to the third belt fastening device, the belt is guidablefrom the third belt fastening device through an opening of a secondstrap and it is attachable to the second belt fastening device. Theopening is, for example, a slit or a loop. This preferred belt guideallows a secure and firm attachment of the device, saddle tree and/orsaddle to the back of a riding animal or pack animal and provides therider a secure seat wherein a specific and improved interaction betweenthe rider and the riding animal or pack animal can be achieved.

In a further preferred belt guide, one end of the belt is attachable toa first belt fastening device, the belt is guidable through an openingof a first strap and it is attachable to a third belt fastening device,the belt is then guidable from the third belt fastening device throughan opening of a second strap and through a membrane, which is below thesaddle tree, above the saddle tree, and the belt is attachable to thesecond belt fastening device.

At least one cushion element is attachable to the bottom side of theseat. In a preferred embodiment, at least two separately formed cushionelements are attached to the bottom side of a seat. Thus, an improvedsupport for applying to a back of a riding animal or pack animal can beprovided and anatomically different body parts can be taken intoconsideration. Furthermore, an improved belt configuration of the ridinganimal or pack animal can be achieved.

Advantageously the cushion element comprises a cushion, a filler and acover. The cushion has a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional shape.The filler is formed between the legs of the U-shaped cushion. A cover,for example a leather cover, surrounds the cushion and the filler. Eachcushion element can comprise openings in order to facilitate theattachment of the cushion elements to the saddle tree by means offastening elements. For example, screws, rivets and/or adhesives can beused as fastening elements.

In a preferred embodiment, the saddle tree which comprises the seat, thefront area, the back area and the both side areas, and the link sectionsof the right and left multi-linked lug arrangements are made from anintegral component, i.e. in one piece. The pivoting devices arepreferably formed by tapering of material or by connection struts. Thematerial of the saddle tree and the lug arrangements preferably comprisefiber-reinforced plastics. There are also other materials usable whichhave sufficient strength and flexibility.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of a seat support device, a saddle tree and asaddle are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, inwhich:

FIG. 1: is a perspective view of a saddle tree of the prior art;

FIG. 2: is a perspective view of a seat support device;

FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b: are top views of a saddle tree;

FIG. 3 c and FIG. 3 d: are top views of a saddle tree showing a furtherlink section;

FIG. 4: is a schematic illustration of a pivoting device;

FIG. 5: is a perspective view of an alternative seat support devicewithin a saddle;

FIG. 6: is a perspective side view of yet another seat support devicewithin a saddle;

FIG. 7: is a schematic side view of seat support device having a firstbelt configuration;

FIG. 8: is a schematic partial top view of a seat support device;

FIG. 9: is a schematic partial bottom view of a seat support device;

FIG. 10: is a schematic side view of a saddle showing a second beltconfiguration;

FIG. 11: shows an exemplary Bock saddle with a seat support device;

FIGS. 12 to 14: show various cushion elements; and

FIGS. 15 to 18: illustrate mounting options of at least one cushionelement.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This detailed description teaches various embodiments of the presentinvention with reference to the accompanying drawings. While so-calledEnglish riding saddles are illustrated in the drawings the expertrecognizes that the embodiments exemplified below are adaptable to anyother type of saddle.

A saddle tree generally comprises of a plurality of components rigidlyconnected together with glue or in other ways. FIG. 1 shows a saddletree of the state of the art. The saddle tree 1 comprises a seat 2extending between a pommel 3, also referred to as saddle head or fork,and a cantle 4. Free ends or wings 5 are formed at the ends of thepommel 3. A gullet plate 6 is arranged and attached to the pommel 3,i.e. the surface facing towards the head of the riding animal or packanimal, by fastening means 7. Two longitudinal springs or bars 8 extendbetween the gullet plate 6 and the cantle 4. Stirrup belt holders 9 arereleasably fastened to the pommel 3, for example by means of riveting orbolting. The saddle tree 1 forms a gullet 10 at its front end 3. Thegullet 10 is used to receive the withers of a riding animal or packanimal. In case that the withers of a riding animal or pack animal isformed high and small, the gullet 10 is accordingly shaped high andsmall. In case that the withers is formed low and wide, the gullet 10 isaccordingly shaped low and wide. The width or breadth of the gullet isalso referred to as gullet width.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective side view of a novel seat support device. Theseat support device can be attached to a saddle support of a ridinganimal or pack animal. A pivoting device 61 of a right multi-linked lugarrangement 40 and a pivoting device 63 of a left multi-linked lugarrangement 50 are attached to a connection strut 80. The seat supportdevice could also be attached to a saddle support. The second linksection 42 of the right multi-linked lug arrangement 40 comprises astirrup belt holder 93 and the second link section 52 of the leftmulti-linked lug arrangement 50 comprises a stirrup belt holder 94. Apivoting device 62 is provided between the second link section 42 andthe third link section 43 of the right multi-linked lug arrangement 40and a pivoting device 64 is provided between the second link section 52and the third link section 53 of the left multi-linked lug arrangement50. As shown in FIG. 2, the pivoting devices 61, 63 can be attached veryclose to the connection strut 80. However, it also is possible that linksections are provided between the connection strut 80 and each of thepivoting devices 61, 63.

FIGS. 3 a and 3 b show top views of a seat support device which isattached to a saddle tree 20. The saddle tree 20 for riding animals orpack animals comprises a front area 31 facing towards the head of ariding animal or pack animal, a seat 30, a back area 32 and two sideareas 33, 34. A cantle 38 is formed in the back area 32. The side areas33, 34 of the seat 30 extend from the front area 31 to the back area 32of the saddle tree 20. A right multi-linked lug arrangement 40 isattached to the front area 31 of the seat 30 substantially at the edgeof the right side area 33 and a left multi-linked lug arrangement 50 isattached to the front area 31 of the seat 30 substantially at the edgeof the left side area 34. The attachment of the lug arrangement 40 atthe edge of the side area 33 is provided by fastening elements 110 suchas screws, rivets and/or adhesives, as shown in FIG. 3 a. In FIG. 3 b,the left multi-linked lug arrangement 50 and the saddle tree 20 areformed from an integral component. The right multi-linked lugarrangement 40 comprises a first link section 41 and a second linksection 42. The left multi-linked lug arrangement 50 comprises a firstlink section 51 and a second link section 52. The second link section 42of the right multi-linked lug arrangement 40 and the second link section52 of the left multi-linked lug arrangement 50 comprise free ends 71,72.

Each lug arrangement 40, 50 advantageously comprises at least onepivoting device. As shown in FIGS. 3 a and 3 b, a pivoting device 61with a pivot axis 610 is provided between the link sections 41 and 42 ofthe right multi-linked lug arrangement 40 and a pivoting device 63 witha pivot axis 630 is provided between the link sections 51 and 52 of theleft multi-linked lug arrangement 50. The pivot axis 610, 630 of thepivoting devices 61, 63 substantially lie in a plane which penetratesthe longitudinal axis of the saddle tree 20 substantially perpendicular.In FIG. 3 a, the pivoting device 61 is, for example, a hinge, and inFIG. 3 b, the pivoting device 63 is an integral hinge, i.e. it can beformed by means of tapering of material. As shown FIG. 3 b, the saddletree and the lug arrangements can be formed from an integral component.Each pivoting device 61, 63 provides a degree of freedom substantiallyaround its pivot axis. Both the lug arrangement 40 and the lugarrangement 50 enable a pivoting whereby an improved adaption of thesaddle tree 20 to the back of a riding animal or pack animal, inparticular regardless of the configuration and form of the withers andthe shoulder areas of the riding animal and pack animal, and a securefixation of the saddle tree 20 to the back of the riding animal or packanimal can be achieved. The pivoting directions are illustrated in FIGS.3 a and 3 b by means of arrows P. As shown in FIG. 3 b, the two adjacentlink sections 51 and 52 are pivotable towards one other around the pivotaxis 630 substantially within a pivot plane which penetrates the pivotaxis 630 substantially perpendicular. The term “substantiallyperpendicular” here preferably comprises a taper angle range of 20°.

FIGS. 3 c and 3 d show top views of a seat support device similar tothat in FIGS. 3 a and 3 b. The right multi-linked lug arrangement (40)has a further link section (4 n) and the left multi-linked lugarrangement (50) has a further link section (5 n). A further pivotingdevice (6 n) with a pivot axis (6 n 0) is formed in each case betweentwo adjacent link sections (43, 4 n, 53, 5 n). The two adjacent linksections (43, 4 n, 53, 5 n) are pivotable towards one other around thepivot axis (6 n 0) substantially within a pivot plane (300) whichpenetrates the pivot axis (6 n 0) substantially perpendicular.

The saddle tree 20 does not comprise a gullet plate and/or a saddlehead. The saddle tree 20 can be made from any material that is suitableparticularly to withstand loads of the tensile forces of a beltconfiguration and force components and torsion components that occurduring movements between the rider and the riding animal or pack animal.For example, plastic compounds such as fiber-reinforced orcarbon-fiber-reinforced plastics or wooden constructions with or withouta spring metal edging but also other materials can be used. The lugarrangements 40, 50 can be made from any material that is suitableparticularly to withstand loads of the tensile forces of a beltconfiguration and force components and torsion components that occurduring movements between the rider and the riding animal or pack animal.The lug arrangements 40, 50, may, for example, comprise a metal, a metalalloy, fiber-reinforced or carbon-fiber-reinforced plastics or the like.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic view which explains the principle of thepivoting devices. A pivoting device 61; 62; 63; 64 is formed between twoadjacent link sections 41, 42; 51, 52; 42, 43; 52, 53. The pivotingdevice 61; 62; 63; 64 comprises a pivot axis 610; 630; 620; 640. Thepivot axis 610; 630; 620; 640 of two adjacent link sections 41, 42; 51,52; 42, 43; 52, 53 is pivotable towards one other around substantiallywithin a pivot plane 300 which penetrates the pivot axis 610; 630; 620;640 substantially perpendicular. Thus, on the one hand a preferredflexibility of the saddle tree can be achieved; on the other hand therequired stability is maintained by the fixation of the rotation plane.The term “substantially perpendicular” preferably comprises a taperangle range of 20°.

FIG. 5 shows an alternative seat support device within a saddle 200. Thesame features or components are indicated with the same referencenumbers. A saddle tree 20 and parts of a preferred saddle 200 aredepicted in FIG. 5. The third link section 43 of the right multi-linkedlug arrangement 40 and the third link section 53 of the leftmulti-linked lug arrangement 50 comprise pivotable free ends 71, 72. Theend of the first link section 41 of the right multi-linked lugarrangement 40 is attached substantially at the edge of the right sidearea and the end of the first link section 51 of the left multi-linkedlug arrangement 50 is attached substantially at the edge of the leftside area 34 by fastening elements 110. A first stirrup belt holder 91or a first stirrup bar is provided between the first link section 41 andthe second link section 42 of the right multi-linked lug arrangement 40and a second stirrup belt holder 92 or a second stirrup bar is providedbetween the first link section 51 and the second link section 52 of theleft multi-linked lug arrangement 50. The stirrup belt holder 91, 92 isa safety hook in which the stirrup belts can be hooked in. As shown inFIG. 5, the second link section 42 and the first stirrup belt holder 91and the second link section 52 and the second stirrup belt holder 92 areeach made from an integral component. Thus, a particularly efficientconstruction can be provided without the need of further separatecomponents or fastening elements. A pivoting device 61, 62 is eachformed between the first link section 41 and the second-link section 42and between the second link section 42 and the third link section 43 ofthe right multi-linked lug arrangement 40. A pivoting device 63, 64 isalso each formed between the first link section 51 and the second linksection 52 and between the second link section 52 and the third linksection 53 of the left-multi-linked lug arrangement 50. The pivotingdevices 61, 62, 63, 64 allow a pivoting of the link sections of the lugarrangements 40, 50 so that an optimal adaption of the multi-linked lugarrangements to the back of a riding animal or pack animal can beachieved. The pivoting directions are illustrated by arrows P. In apreferred embodiment, the saddle tree 20 can have a recess (notdepicted) in the front area 31 of the seat 30. The expert recognizesthat the link sections can have any length. In particular, the firstlink sections 41, 51 can be shorter than the second link sections 42, 52and/or the third link sections 43, 53. A cushion element 210 is attachedto the surface of the saddle tree facing towards the back of the ridinganimal or pack animal. In a preferred embodiment, the pivoting devices61, 63 are provided close to the front area 31 of the seat 30.

It is preferred that two separate cushion elements 210 are attached tothe saddle tree 20 (not depicted in FIG. 5). FIG. 5 shows a lower saddleflap 220. The saddle tree 20 can further comprise, for example, at leastone connection strut between the first link section 41 of theright-multi-linked lug arrangement 40 and the first link section 51 ofthe left multi-linked lug arrangement 50 which, however, is not shown inFIG. 5.

FIG. 6 is a perspective side view of yet another seat support devicewithin a saddle. The same features or components are indicated with thesame reference numbers. A saddle tree 20 and parts of a saddle 200 aredepicted in FIG. 6. The saddle tree 20 comprises a seat 30, a front area31, a back area 32 with a cantle 38 and two side areas 33, 34. Apivoting device 61, 62 is each formed between the first link section 41and the second link section 42 and between the second link section 42and the third link section 43 of the right multi-linked lug arrangement40. Further, a pivoting device 63, 64 is each formed between the firstlink section 51 and the second link section 52 and between the secondlink section 52 and the third link section 53 of the left multi-linkedlug arrangement 50. The pivoting devices 61, 62, 63, 64 are formed bytapering of material. The expert recognizes that the pivoting devices61, 62, 63, 64 can also comprise a hinge or a joint. The saddle tree 20has a recess 35 in the front area 31 of the seat 30 in order to providean improved movability of the back musculature and a protection to theback of the riding animal or pack animal. The end of the link section 41of the right lug arrangement 40 is attached substantially to the edge ofthe side area 33 and the end of the link section 51 of the left lugarrangement 50 is attached substantially to the edge of the side area 34fastening elements. Screws, rivets and/or adhesives are used, forexample, as fastening elements. The ends of the link sections 41, 51 ofthe lug arrangements 40, 50 are connected with a connection strut 80 byfastening elements 110 such as screws, rivets, welding or the like. Theconnection strut 80 is bent and has substantially the shape or curvatureof the saddle tree 20. The connection strut 80 is formed behind therecess 35. In a further preferred embodiment, the connection strut 80and the lug arrangements 40, 50 are made from an integral component (notdepicted in FIG. 6). A first stirrup belt holder 93 (is not depicted inFIG. 6) is attached to the right multi-linked lug arrangement 40 and asecond stirrup belt holder 94 is attached to the left multi-linked lugarrangement 50 by fastening means 95. Particularly, there is not shownin FIG. 6 a seat support formed above the seat or an upper saddle flap.FIG. 6 depicts a lower saddle flap 220 and the at least one cushionelement 210.

FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of a first belt configuration. The samefeatures or components are indicated with the same reference numbers.FIG. 7 shows the saddle tree 20 to which the left multi-linked lugarrangement 50 is attached. The cantle 38 is formed at the back area 32of the seat 30. A pivoting device 63, 64 is each formed between thefirst link section 51 and the second link section 52 and between thesecond link section 52 and the third link section 53 of the leftmulti-linked lug arrangement 50. The pivoting devices 63, 64 are hinges.In a further preferred embodiment, the pivoting devices 63, 64 can alsobe provided by tapering of material. The stirrup belt holder 94 ismounted to the lug arrangement 50 by fastening means 95. A first beltfastening device 101 is formed in the link section 53 in the area of thefree end 72. A second belt fastening device 102 is substantially formedin the front area 31 of the side area 34 and a third belt fasteningdevice 103 is substantially formed in the back area 32 of the side area34. One end of a belt 112 is attached to the first fastening device 101.The belt 112 is guided through an opening 105 of a first strap 104 andis attached to the third belt fastening device 103. The belt is thenguided from the third belt fastening device 103 through an opening 107of a second strap 106 and is attached to the second belt fasteningdevice 102. The same belt which has been guided from the first beltfastening device 101 to the third belt fastening device 103 can becontinued after attachment to the back area 32 of the side area 34.Alternatively, the belt can be guided from the first fastening device101 to the third belt fastening device 103 and another belt can beguided from the third belt fastening device 103 to the second beltfastening device 102. The opening 105 may, for example, be configuredslit-like or round. The indicated positions of the belt fasteningdevices 102 and 103 are examples. The two belt fastening devices 102 and103 are located substantially at the edge of the side area 34.

In FIGS. 2 to 6, the belt fastening devices 101, 102, 103 are notillustrated. The expert recognizes that these embodiments have acorresponding belt configuration.

FIG. 8 is schematic partial top view of a further seat support device.The same features or components are indicated with the same referencenumbers. FIG. 8 shows one half of the saddle tree 20 to which the rightmulti-linked lug arrangement 40 is attached. The seat 30 comprises acantle 38 in the back area 32. A pivoting device 61, 62 is each formedbetween the first link section 41 and the second link section 42 andbetween the second link section 42 and the third link section 43 of theright multi-linked lug arrangement 40. The pivoting devices 61, 62 arehinges. In a preferred embodiment, the pivoting devices 61, 62 cancomprise integral hinges or integral joints formed by a tapering ofmaterial. The stirrup belt holder 93 is attached to the lug arrangement40 by fastening means 95. A first belt fastening device 101 is formed inthe third link section 43 in the area of the free end 71. A second beltfastening device 102 is substantially formed in the front area 31 of theside area 33 and a third belt fastening device 103 is substantiallyformed in the back area 32 of the side area 33. The positions of thebelt fastening devices 102 and 103 indicated in FIG. 8 are examples. Thetwo belt fastening devices 102 and 103 are substantially located at theedge of the side area 33. Two connection struts 80, 81 are formedbetween the right lug arrangement 40 and the left lug arrangement 50(not shown in FIG. 8). The first connection strut 80 is substantiallyformed in the front area 31 and the second connection strut 81 issubstantially formed in the middle or back area 32 of the seat 30.

FIG. 9 is a schematic partial bottom view of a seat support device. Itshows one half of the saddle tree 20 when viewed from below. In FIG. 9,the saddle tree 20 and the left multi-linked lug arrangement 50 areshown. The left multi-linked lug arrangement 50 comprises the first linksection 51, the second link section 52 and the third link section 53.The stirrup belt holder 94 is attached to the lug arrangement 50 byfastening means 95. A pivoting device 63, 64 is each formed between thefirst link section 51 and the second link section 52 and between thesecond link section 52 and the third link section 53 of the leftmulti-linked lug arrangement 50. The pivoting devices 63, 64 are hingesor joints. The expert recognizes that the pivoting devices 63, 64 can beformed by tapering of material. The first link section 51 of the leftmulti-linked lug arrangement 50 is at least partly formed to the backarea 32 of the seat 30. The first link section 41 of the rightmulti-linked lug arrangement 40, which is not depicted in FIG. 9, isalso at least partly formed to the back area 32 of the seat 30. Thefirst link section 41 and the first link section 51 form extendedlongitudinal struts 55. The longitudinal struts are attached to thesaddle tree 20 by fastening means 98. Two connection struts 80, 81 areformed between the right lug arrangement 40 (which is not depicted inFIG. 9) and the left lug arrangement 50. The first connection strut 80is substantially located at the front area 31 and the second connectionstrut 81 is substantially located at the middle or back area 32. The twoconnection struts 80, 81 have a curvature. The longitudinal struts 55and the connection struts 80, 81 can be made from an integral component.A first belt fastening device 101 is formed in the third link section 53in the area of the free end 72. A second belt fastening device 102 issubstantially formed in the front area 31 of the side area 33 and athird belt fastening device 103 is substantially formed in the back area32 of the side area 33. In a preferred embodiment which is not depicted,the links of the lug arrangements, the longitudinal struts and theconnecting struts are made from an integral component and the pivotingdevices are formed by tapering of material.

FIG. 10 is a perspective side of a saddle showing a second beltconfiguration. The same features and components are indicated with thesame reference numbers. FIG. 10 shows a saddle 200 with a saddle tree20. The saddle tree 20 comprises the seat 30, the front area 31, theback area 32 with the cantle 38 and the side areas 33, 34. The pivotingdevice 63 is formed between the first link section 51 and the secondlink section 52 and the pivoting device 64 is formed between the secondlink section 52 and the third link section 53 of the left multi-linkedlug arrangement 50. The pivoting devices 63, 64 are hinges. In a furtherpreferred embodiment, the pivoting devices 63, 64 can be formed bytapering of material. The stirrup belt holder 94 is attached to the lugarrangement 50 by fastening means 95. A first belt fastening device 101is attached to the link section 53 in the area of the free end 72. Asecond belt fastening device 102 is substantially attached to the frontarea 31 of the side area 34 and the third belt fastening device 103 issubstantially attached to the back area 32 of the side area 34. One end111 of the belt 112 is attachable to the first belt fastening device101, the belt is guidable through an opening 105 of a first strap 104and is attachable to the third belt fastening device 103. The belt 112is then guidable from the third belt fastening device 103 through anopening 107 of a second strap 106 and through a membrane of the saddletree 20 and is attachable to the second belt fastening device 102.

In an alternative belt fastening, one end 111 of the belt 112 isattached to the first belt fastening device 101. The belt 112 is guidedthrough an opening 105 of a first strap 104 and is attached to the thirdbelt fastening device 103. The belt 112 is then guided from the thirdbelt fastening device 103 through an opening 107 of a second strap 106and is attached to the second belt fastening device 102.

The belt configuration can be provided by the same belt 112.Alternatively, a belt 112 can be used for the connection from the firstbelt fastening device 101 to the third belt fastening device 103 and aseparate belt can be used for the connection from the third beltfastening device 103 to the second belt fastening device 102. Theopenings 105, 107 are slit-like. The expert recognizes that another beltconfiguration from the first belt fastening device 101 to the secondbelt fastening device 102 and from the second belt fastening device 102to the third belt fastening device 103 is possible.

The positions of the belt fastening devices 102 and 103 depicted in FIG.10 are substantially located at the edge of the side area 34. A seatsupport formed above the seat is not depicted in FIG. 10. The saddle 200comprises at least one cushion element 210 and a lower saddle flap 220.Preferably, the attachment of the saddle 200 behind the scapulae of theriding animal or pack animal is provided flexible by the tension of thebelt configuration.

FIG. 11 shows an exemplary Bock saddle with a seat support device. Thesame features or components are indicated with the same referencenumbers. In FIG. 11, a Bock saddle 200 is depicted to which a seatsupport device is attached. The Bock saddle has a longer support area orseat 30 compared to, for example, a dressage saddle. A saddle headand/or a gullet plate are not provided. A stirrup belt holder 250 isattached to the seat 30. The expert recognizes that the inventive devicecan be attached to different types of saddles.

A cushion element 210 or a pillion which is attachable to theundersurface of the saddle tree is depicted in FIGS. 12 to 14. Theundersurface of the saddle tree refers to the side which faces the horseback of the riding animal or pack animal. The cushion element 210comprises a cushion 212 or a pillow. As shown in FIG. 13, the cushion212 has substantially a U-shape in cross-sectional view. A filler 213 isformed between the legs of the cushion 212. The cushion 212 and thefiller 213 are surrounded by a cover 214 such as a leather cover. Thefiller 213 and the cushion 212 are made from a material which enablesthat the cover 214 can be attached. For example, the filler 213comprises felt or cotton to which a leather cover can be attached. Twocushion elements 210 are preferably attached to a saddle tree whereinone cushion element 210 is substantially disposed on the left side ofthe withers of a riding animal or pack animal and another cushionelement 210 is substantially disposed on the right side of the withersof a riding animal or pack animal. An improved support of the saddletree and the saddle on the back of a riding animal or pack animal can beachieved by providing two cushion elements.

In a preferred embodiment, four separate cushion elements 210, 211 areattachable to the saddle tree. For example, FIG. 14 shows two cushionelements 210, 211, which are attachable to one side of the saddle treeand another pair of cushion elements which are attachable to the otherside of the saddle tree. In a further embodiment, the cushion element210 which is depicted in FIG. 14 can comprise an expansion jointindicated in FIG. 14 with the reference sign 230.

Preferred fastening devices of the at least one cushion element 210 areshown in FIGS. 15 to 18. The at least one cushion element 210 can beattached to the saddle tree 20 by means of fastening elements 215 suchas screws and by riveting. For example, in FIGS. 15 and 16, a screw 215is shown. Openings 216 can be formed in the at least one cushion element210 in order to facilitate the attachment.

Alternative fastening elements are shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. The atleast one cushion element 210 is attachable to the lower saddle flap 220by means of press stud elements 217, 218. The press stud elements 217,218 are fastening elements which comprise two parts wherein one part 218has a deepening and the other part 217 has the corresponding head. Forfastening both parts are pressed together. To facilitate the attachment,the at least one cushion element 210 can have openings 219. The parts218 with the deepening can be attached, for example, to the lower saddleflap 220 and the parts 217 with the proper head can be guided throughthe openings 219 and can be pressed together with the parts 218.

The expert recognizes that combinations of preferred embodiments arepossible. For example, the left multi-linked lug arrangement cancomprise a hinge and a tapering of material as a pivoting device and theright multi-linked lug arrangement can comprise a hinge and a taperingof material. Furthermore, two or more connection struts can be formedbetween the first link sections of the lug arrangements. In theexemplary figures, one or two pivoting devices per lug arrangement havebeen described. Three or more pivoting devices can also be providedbetween the respective link sections of the lug arrangements.Particularly, the so-called English riding saddle is shown in thefigures in preferred embodiments. The expert recognizes that theinventive device can be attached to other types of saddles such as packsaddles, Western saddles with or without a horn, stock saddles with orwithout a horn, saddles without saddle trees, trekking saddles,endurance saddles, baroque saddles, Iberian saddles, trail saddles orside saddles.

What is claimed is:
 1. A seat support device for a riding animal or apack animal, comprising: a right multi-linked lug arrangement (40); anda left multi-linked lug arrangement (50), each comprising a first linksection (41, 51) pivotally connected to a second link section (42, 52)by a first pivoting device (61, 63), the first pivoting device (61, 63)having a first pivot axis (610, 630) allowing the first link section(41, 51) and the second link section (42, 52) to pivot freely towardseach other while in use.
 2. The seat support device as in claim 1,wherein each multi-linked lug arrangement (40, 50) further comprises athird link section (43, 53) pivotally connected to the second linksection (42, 52) by a second pivoting device (62, 64) having a secondpivot axis (620, 640) allowing the second link section (42, 52) and thethird link section (43, 53) to pivot towards each other within a secondpivot plane which penetrates the second pivot axis (620, 640)substantially perpendicular.
 3. Device according to claim 2, wherein theright multi-linked lug arrangement (40) has a further link section (4 n)and the left multi-linked lug arrangement (50) has a further linksection (5 n), wherein a further pivoting device (6 n) with a pivot axis(6 n 0) is formed in each case between two adjacent link sections (43, 4n, 53, 5 n), the two adjacent link sections (43, 4 n, 53, 5 n) arepivotable towards one other around the pivot axis (6 n 0) substantiallywithin a pivot plane (300) which penetrates the pivot axis (6 n 0)substantially perpendicular.
 4. The seat support device as in claim 1,wherein the first pivoting device (61, 63) comprises a hinge or a joint.5. The seat support device as in claim 1, wherein the first pivotingdevice (61, 63) is formed by tapering of material.
 6. The seat supportdevice as in claim 1, wherein the first pivoting device (61, 63) isformed by a partly flexible tissue element.
 7. The device as in claim 2,wherein the third link section (43, 53) comprises a free end (71, 72).8. The seat support device as in claim 1, wherein the seat supportdevice is connected to a seat having a front area and a back area, andwherein the first link section (41, 51) extends at least partly towardsthe back area of the seat.
 9. The seat support device as in claim 1,further comprising a connection element (80) between the first linksection (41) of the right multi-linked lug arrangement (40) and thefirst link section (51) of the left multi-linked lug arrangement (50).10. The seat support device as in claim 1, wherein the rightmulti-linked lug arrangement (40) and the left multi-linked lugarrangement (50) each comprise a stirrup belt holder (91, 92).
 11. Theseat support device as in claim 10, wherein the stirrup belt holder (93,94) is attached to the first link section (41, 51) or the second linksection (42, 52) by fastening means (95).
 12. The seat support device asin claim 7 connected to a seat having a front area and a back area,wherein the right multi-linked lug arrangement (40) and the leftmulti-linked lug arrangement (50) each further comprise: a first beltfastening device (101) in an area of the free end (71, 72); a secondbelt fastening device (102) in the front area of the seat; and a thirdbelt fastening device (103) in the back area of the seat.
 13. The seatsupport device as in claim 12, wherein an end (111) of a belt (112) isattachable to the first belt fastening device (101), the belt (112) isguidable through an opening (105) of a first strap (104) and isattachable to the third belt fastening device (103), the belt (112) isguidable from the third belt fastening device (103) through an opening(107) of a second strap (106) and is attachable to the second beltfastening device (102).
 14. The seat support device as in claim 1,wherein the device does not comprise a saddle head and/or a gulletplate.
 15. A saddle tree (20) suitable for a riding animal or a packanimal comprising: a seat (30) having a front area, a back area (32),and two side areas (33, 34); and a seat support device as in claim 1attached to the saddle tree (20).
 16. The saddle tree (20) as in claim15, further comprising a recess (35) in the front area (31) of the seat(30).
 17. A saddle (200) supported on the back of a riding animal or apack animal comprising: the seat support device as in claim 1; a seat(30) having a bottom facing the riding animal or pack animal; and atleast one cushion element (210) attached to the bottom of the seat (30).18. The saddle (200) is in claim 17, wherein two separately formedcushion elements (210, 211) are attachable to the bottom of the seat(30).
 19. The saddle (200) as in claim 17, wherein the at least onecushion element (210) comprises a cushion (212), a filler (213), and acover (214).
 20. The saddle (200) as in claim 17, wherein the at leastone cushion element (210) is attached to the saddle tree (20) byfastening means (215).
 21. The saddle (200) as in claim 17, furthercomprising a saddle tree (20).